LYNSEY BEWS

Any split between UK and Scottish Labour would be detrimental to the entire party, the new shadow Scottish secretary insisted, as he called for a move beyond “individual personality conflicts” after the leadership race.

Dave Anderson issued a plea for unity during a two-day visit to Scotland in which he met union representatives in Aberdeen.

Shadow Scottish Secretary Dave Anderson said any split between UK and Scottish Labour would be 'detrimental' to the entire party. Picture: PA

He also denied reports he said he had been snubbed by Scottish leader Kezia Dugdale, stating he was in “constant dialogue” with the MSP and her office.

The Blaydon MP took over the shadow cabinet role after Labour’s only Scottish MP Ian Murray quit in protest against Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership.

Ms Dugdale has also spoken out against Mr Corbyn’s bid to stay on as leader.

The bitter battle for control of the UK party has led some Scottish Labour figures to advocate for an independent party north of the Border.

I would hope that – whoever is the leader of our party – a UK / Scottish Labour split never happens

Dave Anderson

Mr Anderson said: “All of us should get behind the person who is elected as leader and do everything we can to focus on the real split in this country – between those who have and those who haven’t.”

On a UK / Scottish Labour split, he said: “There is absolutely no evidence that is being suggested or mentioned by anyone.

“I would hope that – whoever is the leader of our party – that never happens.